New Rules Let Steel Firms Cut Tariffs by Making More Here
Published Date: 4/23/2026
Notice
Summary
Steel and aluminum producers with new U.S. production can now apply to lower their tariffs under Proclamation 10984 starting April 23, 2026. This means companies in Canada or Mexico boosting U.S. steel or aluminum output might pay less import tax. It’s a smart move to encourage more American-made steel and aluminum while keeping trade fair and secure.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Canada/Mexico Producers Can Seek Tariff Cuts
Starting April 23, 2026, steel and aluminum producers that operate production facilities in Canada or Mexico and that supply U.S. automobile or medium- and heavy-duty vehicle (MHDV) manufacturers may apply for a reduced tariff under Proclamation 10984. The Secretary may reduce the otherwise applicable tariff by up to half but not below 25%, and any reduction applies only to imports that qualify for USMCA preferential treatment and were smelted/cast or melted/poured in Canada or Mexico and only up to quantities equal to the projected annual new U.S. production capacity.
Detailed Application & Quarterly Reporting Required
Qualified applicants must submit CFO- or equivalent-certified project documentation (project location, proposed capacity, NAICS/HTSUS codes, suppliers, construction plans) and commit to mandatory milestones (e.g., land purchase, facility design, construction start, equipment purchase, first heat). Applicants must provide quarterly progress reports and cost-to-date details; failure to substantially meet milestones can lead to paused adjustments, termination of eligibility, and liquidation or reliquidation of prior entries.
Tariff Headings Added to HTSUS April 23, 2026
As of April 23, 2026, the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States is amended to add headings 9903.82.18 (steel) and 9903.82.19 (aluminum) to implement tariff adjustments described in the notice; importers using these headings must provide any information required by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The HTSUS entries reflect that qualifying articles will be subject to the duty provided plus 25% under the new headings.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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